距離
Kyori refers to the physical amount of space between two points or objects. It can also be used figuratively to describe the psychological or emotional gap between people in a relationship.
Examples
3 of 5ここから駅までの距離は1キロです。
The distance from here to the station is one kilometer.
両国の距離を縮めるために、会談が行われました。
A meeting was held to shorten the distance between the two countries.
最近、彼女との距離を感じるんだ。
Recently, I feel a distance between me and her.
Word Family
Memory Tip
The first kanji (距) contains the 'foot' radical on the left; imagine using your feet to walk the distance.
Quick Quiz
家から学校までの___はどのくらいですか?
Correct!
The correct answer is: 距離
Examples
ここから駅までの距離は1キロです。
everydayThe distance from here to the station is one kilometer.
両国の距離を縮めるために、会談が行われました。
formalA meeting was held to shorten the distance between the two countries.
最近、彼女との距離を感じるんだ。
informalRecently, I feel a distance between me and her.
この星と地球の距離は、非常に正確に計算されている。
academicThe distance between this star and the Earth is calculated very accurately.
職場までの距離が採用の条件になります。
businessThe distance to the workplace is a condition for hiring.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
直線距離
straight-line distance / as the crow flies
心の距離
emotional distance
ソーシャルディスタンス
social distance
Often Confused With
Kyori is the displacement (straight line), while Michinori is the actual length of the path traveled.
Usage Notes
Use this word when talking about measurable lengths like kilometers or meters, or when expressing social boundaries. It is more formal than simply saying 'tooi' (far) or 'chikai' (near).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'kyori' as an adjective (e.g., *kyori desu* for 'it is far'). Use 'tooi' for the adjective and 'kyori' when you want to mention the specific measurement.
Memory Tip
The first kanji (距) contains the 'foot' radical on the left; imagine using your feet to walk the distance.
Word Origin
From Sino-Japanese roots: 'kyo' (to reach/resist) and 'ri' (to leave/separate).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Japanese society, 'kyorikan' (sense of distance) is vital for maintaining harmony; being too close too fast is often seen as rude.
Quick Quiz
家から学校までの___はどのくらいですか?
Correct!
The correct answer is: 距離
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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